This is a question that should be asked when planning a trip abroad, what administrative steps should be taken to ensure that the stay runs smoothly? These steps are essential and necessary in order not to be surprised by legislation that differs from one country to another and is useful in the event of identity checks, health concerns or even requests for repatriation, for example. For foreigners planning to stay in France, it may be advisable to prepare your stay with the help of the tourist office, whose agents, who often speak at least English, can provide key information. French tourists must also make serious enquiries before leaving the territory in order to leave serenely and confidently
What steps to take before travelling to Europe
First of all, even if you are allowed to travel freely in the Schengen countries, there are some things you can do to leave with a clear conscience. First, make a photocopy of your identity card or passport and leave it at home or with a relative. This makes it possible to anticipate possible problems in the event of loss of papers abroad. Also check that you have civil liability insurance, personal assistance or car insurance, or cover for illness, accident and cancellation of your trip. To do this, all you have to do is contact the various usual administrations with which everyone has a contract (home insurance, car insurance, CPAM, mutual insurance, bank, etc.) to see what they offer. And don't forget to check with the travel agency about the benefits in case of cancellation of your trip
If you are travelling in a European country that is not part of the Schengen area, you should not forget to check the legislation in force and the type of documents you will need to have in order to travel legally. For this purpose, it is recommended to contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of countries whose e-mail contacts are very easily found on the Internet
Finally, in the event of a crisis abroad, remember to register on the Ariane website before leaving. This service, which depends on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, allows you to receive recommendations, if the situation in the country where you are going justifies it, to be contacted in case of a serious problem in the host country (attack, natural disaster...) and finally the person you designate when you register can be notified in order to contact you later
Administrative procedures before travelling outside the European Union
If you are travelling outside the European Union, take exactly the same precautions as if you are travelling within Europe. However, you will need to check what documents you need to enter the foreign territory. While some countries only require a simple up-to-date passport, others require that it be accompanied by a visa. It is now very easy to check the documents requested by the country you wish to visit, with a single click on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. If you are travelling with children, remember to have them make an identity card or passport, a visa if it is requested and finally, depending on the country and if you are travelling alone with them, you may be asked for a document certifying the family relationship
The other point to which he draws attention is insurance. When you travel abroad, you benefit from assistance or compensation in the event of a problem (illness, accident, etc.). If specific organisations can offer you insurance and assistance contracts, do not forget that some specific needs are already covered by your personal insurance contracts. Take stock of your needs and get closer to your car, home or bank insurance to find out what coverage you already have. This will prevent you from paying twice for the same service. These different administrative procedures, if they can frighten by the time to spend there, are strongly recommended to calm down and leave with a free mind
